What equipment do I need to play billiards?

To play billiards, you will need a few essential equipment pieces. First and foremost, a billiards table is required, which should meet standard dimensions and have a smooth playing surface. The table should come with a set of billiard balls, typically including 15 numbered object balls, 1 cue ball, and the 8-ball. Additionally, you will need a variety of cues, ideally with different weights, for different shots and players. Chalk is essential for cue tips to ensure proper grip and ball control. A billiard rack is necessary to arrange and set up the balls before each game. Lastly, a scoreboard or scorekeeping system is recommended to keep track of points. Remember, these are the basic equipment requirements, but additional accessories like a bridge stick or cue extender might also enhance your playing experience.